Bacon Rind Fire Expands to 340 Acres, Now in Yellowstone

As the Bacon Rind Fire expands to 340 acres, it’s encroached on the western boundary of Yellowstone National Park 20 miles south of Big Sky — but it has not impacted roads or threatened any structures.

We reported on the emergence of the Bacon Rind Fire this past weekend in the Lee Metcalf Wilderness area, as a lightning strike created a small fire on July 16. Visitors are able to see smoke from the Bacon Rind Fire from Highway 191, near mile marker 42 (twenty miles south of Big Sky), between Bacon Rind and Snowslide Creeks. The fire is two miles west of Highway 191. Right now the situation is being monitored both by fire officials from the Custer Gallatin National Forest and Yellowstone National Park.

The expansion of the fire into 20 acres of a remote part of Yellowstone National Park isn’t yet a cause for concern, say Park officials. Still, the conditions are ripe for future expansion: the Bacon Rind Fire is fueled by thick, downed mixed conifer, but has not made any sizable runs. Falling snags continue to be a significant safety concern for firefighters.

Remember: the fire danger in Yellowstone National Park is currently pegged as high. There are no fire restrictions in the park, but officials are recommended plenty of care with campfires. Campfires are only permitted in fire rings at campgrounds and some backcountry campsites. Campfires must be extinguished and cold to touch after use.

UPDATED 1:45 PM: The Bacon Rind Fire has now expanded to 340 acres, including 140 acres in Yellowstone National Park. There are two 20 person crews assigned to the fire, as well as two light helicopters.

We’re already seen a small fire in Yellowstone this season: the Hayden Fire.

Video and image courtesy InciWeb.